Who is in control?
Controlling behaviour can be hard to spot.
It can start small, and you might not even realise it’s happening. It might seem like the ups and downs of any couple.
But controlling behaviour can be a form of abuse. The red flags to look out for are things like:
- Your partner distancing you from friends and family
- Comments about you which make you feel bad
- Feeling trapped, or like your partner is watching your every move
- Always trying not to break their rules, so that you don’t upset them
- Your partner wanting a say in your decisions – like what you wear, who you see, or where you go
- Taking charge of the finances, and not allowing you to spend money
Controlling behaviour is wrong, and the person who is doing it is in control of their own actions.
There is help available if this is happening to you – you are not alone.
There is also help for people doing the controlling behaviour – if you’re taking things too far, and hurting someone you love. You can change.
Find out more using the buttons below.
If you are concerned about controlling and coercive behaviour, support is available here: Advice about domestic abuse | Derbyshire Constabulary.